Powerful explosions were reported across several Iranian cities early Monday after Israel launched retaliatory strikes targeting military installations in western and central Iran. Blasts were heard in Tehran, Tabriz, and Isfahan, while reports also emerged of loud sonic booms in Iraq’s capital, Baghdad, highlighting growing regional tensions following a fresh exchange of attacks between the two countries.
The Israeli operation came hours after Iran launched ballistic missiles at the Ramat David Airbase in northern Israel. Israeli authorities described Monday’s action as a direct response to that attack, with the Israel Defense Forces stating that the Israeli Air Force had targeted military sites linked to the Iranian government. The strikes marked a significant escalation in an already fragile security situation in the region.
According to Iranian media reports, the explosions were confirmed by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which alleged that Israel used air-launched ballistic missiles during the operation. While authorities acknowledged the attacks, no official casualty figures or detailed assessments of damage were immediately released. Emergency and security agencies were reportedly evaluating the impact across the affected areas.
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The developments occurred despite repeated appeals from U.S. President Donald Trump urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to avoid military retaliation. Reports indicated that Trump had spoken with Netanyahu on Sunday and advised restraint following Iran’s missile attack. However, Israel proceeded with the strikes, arguing that a response was necessary following the targeting of its military facilities.
Regional concerns intensified after Saudi Arabia reportedly issued a missile alert in an area that includes the Prince Sultan Air Base, a strategic facility hosting U.S. military personnel. In neighboring Iraq, witnesses reported hearing powerful sonic booms across Baghdad. Defense monitoring groups suggested the sounds may have been caused by Israeli fighter aircraft transiting regional airspace at high speeds following the operation.
The latest escalation follows a series of confrontations between Israel and Iran-linked forces across the Middle East. Iran had previously warned that any Israeli response to its missile strike would be met with further action, raising concerns about the possibility of a broader regional conflict. With both sides exchanging military attacks and tensions remaining high, international observers are closely monitoring developments for signs of further escalation.
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